THE recent spate of honour killings in Karachi is not just tragic but indicative of a deeply concerning societal issue that continues to plague our country. The cases of Shahzadi, Saira Luqman and Waheeda highlight the brutal reality faced by many women in Pakistan, where their lives are tragically cut short in the name of so-called honour.
Honour killings have no place in any civilized society. Islam unequivocally condemns such acts of violence and emphasizes the sanctity of human life. Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) taught compassion and justice, principles that are clearly disregarded in these heinous crimes. Shahzadi, a 20-year-old who dared to marry of her own choice, was brutally murdered by her own grandfather. Saira Luqman and her husband, Adil, were slain simply for marrying out of familial consent. Waheeda, seeking to remarry after being widowed twice, met a tragic end at the hands of her own brother. These incidents are not isolated; they reflect a broader pattern of gender-based violence that persists in our society. According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), hundreds of cases of honour killings are reported annually, with many more going unreported. In 2023 alone, 226 women lost their lives in such horrific incidents. These figures only scratch the surface of the problem, as societal pressures, lack of awareness, and fear of reprisal prevent many victims from seeking justice. It is imperative that the government takes decisive action to address this crisis. Law enforcement agencies must ensure that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice, and that the law is implemented rigorously to deter future crimes. There should be no leniency for those who perpetrate violence in the name of honour. If women are not safe in major cities like Karachi, it raises serious questions about their safety in rural and remote areas where such incidents often go unreported and unchecked. The protection of women’s rights and the eradication of gender-based violence must be a priority at all levels of governance and society.
